AFC Breakout Candidates: One Player to Watch for Every Team
The NFL offseason is currently in a foundational phase, as franchises transition from draft excitement to the rigorous preparation required for the regular season. This period serves as a critical window for breakout candidates and veteran stars to solidify their roles within their respective rosters. Across the AFC, several players are positioning themselves to become central figures for their teams, ranging from high-potential rookies to established veterans looking for a resurgence.
Did You Know? The Buffalo Bills, despite their defensive aspirations, finished in the bottom half of the league in total sacks during the 2025 season, prompting the selection of edge rusher T.J. Parker in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
AFC East: Emerging Offensive and Defensive Talents
In New England, the wide receiver room has undergone a massive transformation, headlined by the acquisition of A.J. Brown and the signing of Romeo Doubs. However, 2025 third-round pick Kyle Williams remains a player to watch as he looks to expand on his rookie campaign. Williams could challenge veteran Mack Hollins for snaps opposite Brown as he seeks to evolve beyond his initial role as a deep threat.
Buffalo is looking for an immediate impact from T.J. Parker to bolster a pass rush that struggled in 2025. While Bradley Chubb remains the primary veteran anchor, Parker’s collegiate success at Clemson—highlighted by 11 sacks and 19.5 tackles for a loss in 2024—suggests he could be a significant factor in the Bills’ Super Bowl pursuit if he translates that production to the professional level.
In Miami, Malik Washington is poised for a target increase following a roster overhaul that saw the departures of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. With Malik Willis taking over as the starting quarterback, Washington could emerge as the team’s primary receiving threat. Meanwhile, the New York Jets are banking on tight end Mason Taylor to build on a 2025 season where he led the team in receptions, particularly if the team utilizes 12-personnel packages alongside fellow tight end Kenyon Sadiq.
AFC North: Veteran Rebounds and Defensive X-Factors
Pittsburgh’s acquisition of Michael Pittman Jr. has largely flown under the radar, yet he provides the Steelers with a necessary secondary receiver option to pair with D.K. Metcalf. Pittman’s arrival is expected to be a major contributor during what is slated to be Aaron Rodgers’ final season.
Baltimore’s Mark Andrews enters 2026 following a career-low 422-yard season. With Isaiah Likely moving to the Giants, Andrews stands to reclaim a significant portion of the team’s target share. In Cincinnati, first-round pick Shemar Stewart is looking to move past a quiet rookie season. Early praise from coaches and teammate Boye Mafe during offseason workouts suggests Stewart could become a vital component of the Bengals’ defensive front.
Cleveland’s backfield remains focused on Quinshon Judkins, but Dylan Sampson is expected to play a critical 1B role. Given his 33 receptions last season, Sampson is likely to be a featured target in Todd Monken’s passing schemes, much like previous running backs in the coordinator’s systems.
Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the transition of veteran players like Mark Andrews and Michael Pittman Jr. into new or expanded roles highlights the league-wide trend of balancing proven consistency with the need for roster flexibility. The success of these teams often hinges on whether these veterans can maximize their remaining windows of high-level production while younger teammates adjust to increased responsibilities.
AFC South and West: Strategic Shifts and Breakout Opportunities
The AFC South features Brian Thomas Jr., who is aiming for a major bounce-back after a difficult sophomore year in Jacksonville. In Houston, Jayden Higgins is a candidate for a Year 2 leap after a strong second half in 2025. The Colts, meanwhile, have opened up 111 targets following the trade of Pittman, creating a clear path for Josh Downs to reach 100 targets. Tennessee’s Elic Ayomanor remains a developmental prospect to monitor, especially as the team navigates the veteran timeline of Calvin Ridley.
In the AFC West, Denver’s Jonah Coleman could see significant snaps if J.K. Dobbins deals with recurring durability concerns. The Chargers’ Oronde Gadsden II is expected to serve as a long-term piece, potentially becoming a primary target under offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel. In Kansas City, R Mason Thomas could challenge Felix Anudike-Uzomah for a starting edge role, while the Raiders’ Jack Bech is positioned for a breakout season as he works with new quarterback Fernando Mendoza in Klint Kubiak’s offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary reason for the potential increase in targets for Josh Downs in 2026?
The Indianapolis Colts traded Michael Pittman Jr. to the Pittsburgh Steelers, which freed up 111 targets within the offense.
Why is Mark Andrews considered an under-the-radar candidate for the Baltimore Ravens?
Andrews is coming off a career-low 422-yard season and turns 31 before the regular season begins, but the departure of Isaiah Likely has left 36 targets from 2025 vacant for him to potentially reclaim.
What was the result of the 2026 NFL Draft trade involving the Buffalo Bills?
Buffalo traded out of the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, utilizing their first pick in the second round to select edge rusher T.J. Parker.
Which of these players do you believe is most likely to make the biggest impact on their team’s record this season?